Okay, so freshman year of college...stressful right? Totally, but also super fun! It is one of the most amazing experiences of your life. There are a couple of things though that make it just a little bit better and some things to remember to help get you through these tough times. These ten things I would strongly recommend that any freshman or incoming freshman do in their time as a first year.
1. Go to a Party
I know cliché right? But still completely true. A party is one of the best ways to meet some awesome people, also you'll probably have an awesome time!
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2. Go to a Game
It can be football, basketball, baseball, soccer, volleyball, wrestling, anything! You don't have to go to all of them or even every sport, just go to one. Not only will you show your rocking school spirit, but it will be so much fun. You get to yell at the other team and wear awesome sports apparel. (Also, a great place to meet new people.) It is an experience that just won't be the same after you have graduated.
3. Spend Some Time in the Library
My bet is your library is sick. The library offers so many amenities that you can take full advantage of to help you through. Some even have a stress puppy that comes in that you can play with...I mean COME ON NOW! There are tons of books and movies you can borrow. Also, the library offers a peaceful environment where you can get your work done because we all know when we go back to our dorm and crawl up in our beds we aren't going to want to work on our homework.
4. Do Some Impulsive Stuff
College is the time for experimenting, trying new things, figuring out who you are and how you will fit into this society. Do something crazy! Get the nose ring you've always wanted. Get a tattoo. Run wild at a party. Go skydiving or cliff jumping. Just don't stay locked up in your room and "stick to the status quo". Figure out who you want to be and have some fun.
5. Eat the Local Cuisine
Most colleges are based in a cool city. All cities have some restaurants that strictly indigenous to that location. Take the time to go eat at some local places. There may be a place that everyone in the city knows and goes to that excellent. There may be a little hole in the wall off the beaten place that is probably amazing. Take that step out of your comfort zone and explore the area. You'll probably find some place that you will love!
6. Get Some Sleep
You may think sleep will come easy, but it rarely does. I can remember during finals week that I maybe got a cumulative six hours of sleep the whole week. Even throughout the semester, it is hard to get a good nights sleep. You may have a ton of homework that will be due soon, you may have an obnoxiously loud roommate or people above you who wear elephant shoes, regardless sleep is hard to come by. Try to get some sleep, though. You will thank yourself when your alarm goes off, and you make it to class on time versus hitting snooze a ton.
7. Take the Bus
Most people do not even think about the shuttle buses on campus. They are one of the biggest assets available to students. It picks you up and takes you wherever you need to go around campus. Think you won't make it to your class on time? Take the bus. If your feet start hurting from all the walking your doing, take the bus. You just simply don't want to walk, take the bus. Typically the bus drivers are some of the nicest people on campus, and they are always a smiling face as soon as you get on. Seriously people--utilize your shuttles!
8. Start a Study Group
Starting a study group was one of the wisest decisions I have made my entire freshman year. Starting a study group allows you to meet new people, as well as collectively work together on assignments. Some people in your group may have some difficulties with some subjects where others excel and this dynamic leads to more learning. Working with others allows you to bounce ideas off of each other and use each other's strengths to help further you in your path to success. When you need the help, someone is always there. Even if you don't know anyone in your class, shoot everyone an email and so many people will respond back that they want to join.
9. Skip a Class
I know everyone tells you not to skip a class. However, I feel as though going is not always necessary. If the class you are taking does not have mandatory attendance and the professor is not the greatest lecturer, skip. If you don't feel good, skip. If there is a day when you just do not want to get out the bed, don't. Skip! It is okay not to be in class every day. Now, don't miss assignments or quizzes and definitely don't fall behind, but do not feel as though every class is necessary because it's not. Know your class and its limits and follow them--just know it's okay to skip.
10. Call Your Parents
Life gets so crazy when you get to college. It seems like you are always busy, but set aside some time to call your folks. They will sure appreciate a call, and you will definitely feel better after a call with your parent. They are for sure more worried about you than you are them. However, you miss them just as much as they miss you. College is hard, don't exclude your parents, keep them in the loop. Just in case you didn't already know, your parents are basically the best!
